Microsoft India plans to train 1 million women

Microsoft's Indian arm is rolling out an initiative to train and mentor 1 million women over the next 12 months to add a "feminine" touch to the Indian IT industry.

Microsoft launched the "Women in Tech" initiative to double the number of women who are IT professionals in the country. The number currently stands at 1 million.

The initiative will work with girls in school and young women pursuing the fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics in college. Women IT professionals and entrepreneurs will also be included in the project. Microsoft has created an online application form for those who wish to apply.

The initiative will work with women from their high school days until they land an IT job or begin their own IT firm. Microsoft will be conducting awareness sessions, training programs and will also offer certification with mentoring sessions.

"Besides, Microsoft Ventures will mentor 30 women-led start-up companies and support them in building connections with the broader start-up community in India," Landes said.

The Indian tech industry is expected to undergo a boom over the next few years under the new Prime Minister Narendra Modi who is seen as business-friendly and eager to bring investment and technology to India. He recently unveiled a plan to work with Japanese know-how and technology to give the city of Varanasi a makeover.

The Microsoft program will also work to create local support from communities for girls and women to meet and learn as well as share ideas and connect with each other.